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Psychology AS/A-Level at Ravens Wood School

Course description

A level Psychology is a very popular subject which links to both the natural and social sciences. It is a diverse subject that enables students to gain insight into the human mind and behaviour. Students will study psychological theories, concepts and research. They will develop the ability to identify ethical issues and use a range of research methods to investigate psychological issues.

A level Psychology provides training in critical analysis, reasoning and the ability to carry out experimental research. It is among a small group of subjects which is accepted by the elite Russell Group of universities. Studying psychology can lead to a wide variety of professions including business related careers, the legal profession and health services, counselling, clinical, forensic, and educational and child psychology.

Course content

Paper One – Introductory topics in psychology

Section A – Social Influence

Section B – Memory

Section C – Attachment

Section D - Psychopathology

Paper Two - Psychology in Context

Section A – Approaches in Psychology

Section B – Biopsychology

Section C – Research Methods

Paper Three – Issues and Options in Psychology

Section A – Issues and Debates in Psychology

Section B – Gender

Section C – Schizophrenia

Section D – Aggression

Entry requirements

B or above in English Language or Literature, Science and Maths.

Assessment

The A level will be assessed over three papers at the end of the second year of teaching. Each paper is 2 hours long and worth 96 marks in total. Each paper is worth 33.3% of the final A level mark. There may be an option to take a stand alone AS qualification at the end of the first year of teaching for some students if it is deemed necessary. Throughout the course there will be opportunities for students to complete pre-public exam assessments in order to give both student and teacher a precise picture of progress throughout the course.

Future opportunities

Psychology is good preparation for both humanities degrees (History, English Literature, Politics, Philosophy) and Science degrees. It provides students with a wide range of transferrable skills for careers in law, education, finance, government, journalism and many more. Psychology will develop your critical thinking and research skills. The ability to write succinctly and with clarity is positively encouraged.

How to apply

If you want to apply for this course, you will need to contact Ravens Wood School directly.